Different from the western movement of art, in 1974, Samikshavad became the first indigenous Art movement in modern India. ‘Samiksha’, a Sanskrit word, means criticism of life and society in which they live. Samikshavad had a distinct identity of its own and was not inspired by the western trend of art. The Indian art circle during those times raised their voice through this movement and many illustrated lecture programs on Samikshavad were sponsored by UniversityArtDepartments at different places. Samikshavad gained ground in the seventies in the country and then went on to create a new atmosphere in the field of art for an indigenous development of Indian modern art.

The main source of inspiration for Samikshavad was social, political, cultural and economical conditions in the country. The aim of this movement of art was to free art from any kind of personal obligations. Samikshavad wanted to socialize art, diverging art from any kind of mystery. Artists who adopted or were a part of this movement exposed issues like corruption prevalent in the society. Artists used metaphors and symbols and painted with a visual language that was full of satire. This movement has changed the scenario of modern Indian painting.